Living without smell or flavour

Philpott’s work developing a device to measure sense of smell launched a career treating anosmia

(Image: Jason Bye)

Director of the UK’s first and only clinic devoted to taste and smell disorders, Carl Philpott explains how these conditions can completely change your experience of the world. He tells Mick O’Hare why it’s time these crucial senses get the attention they deserve

How many people are affected by taste and smell disorders?It’s tough to put a precise figure on it, but the best estimate is around 1 in 20. In the UK alone, this adds up to more than 3 million people. As a comparison, 1 in 30 people in the UK have some form of sight loss and 1 in 6 have a hearing disorder.

Why are these senses so important?They are a huge part of everyday life. Eating is essential for our survival, and enjoyment of food and drink ensures this process is maintained. These senses also serve as a hazard warning system to help us avoid dangers such as gas leaks and spoiled food. Smell ensures we maintain our personal hygiene, and offers us an essential interaction with the world around us – giving pleasure from simple things such as flowers. For many people smell also helps to recreate memories.